Jimmy Buffett had Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. He battled this cancer for about four years before passing away on September 1, 2023, at the age of 76

. Merkel cell carcinoma is much less common than melanoma or basal cell carcinoma, with about 3,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the U.S. It tends to be more aggressive, grows rapidly, and has a high risk of spreading to other parts of the body. This cancer usually appears as painless, firm lesions or nodules on sun-exposed areas like the head, neck, or eyelids

. Buffett had risk factors including being over 50 and extensive sun exposure. Despite his diagnosis, he continued to perform during treatment until his health declined shortly before his death